Russia’s role as arms exporter likely undermined by its invasion of Ukraine, sanctions – UK intelligence

Russia’s role as a reliable arms exporter is highly likely being undermined by its invasion of Ukraine and international sanctions.

The UK Ministry of Defense said this in its latest intelligence update published on Twitter, Ukrinform reports.

It is noted that even before the invasion, Russia’s share of the international arms market was declining. Now, when faced with conflicting demands, Russia will almost certainly prioritise deploying newly produced weapons with its own forces in Ukraine over supplying export partners.

“A shortage of components is likely affecting the production of equipment for export, such as armoured vehicles, attack helicopters, and air defence systems,” the report says.

In addition, Russia’s ability to sustain support services for existing export contracts, such as providing spare parts and maintenance, is likely to be seriously disrupted for at least the next three to five years.

As reported by Ukrinform, the British intelligence earlier stated that Russia’s shelling of Kherson is likely partially aiming to degrade civilian morale and to deter any Ukrainian counter-attacks across the Dnipro River.

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